ACSM Special Populations 2

Question 1

When prescribing aerobic exercise for a client with type 2 diabetes, which timing consideration is most important to reduce hypoglycemia risk?

Accepted Answer

Monitor blood glucose before, during, and after exercise sessions

Answer

Monitoring blood glucose before, during, and after exercise is the most critical safety practice to detect and manage hypoglycemia in clients with diabetes.

Question 2

A pregnant client in her second trimester asks about safe heart rate targets during exercise. What is the ACSM-recommended approach?

Accepted Answer

Use RPE of 12–14 on the Borg 6–20 scale as the primary intensity guide

Answer

ACSM recommends using RPE of 12–14 (somewhat hard) as the primary intensity guide during pregnancy because heart rate targets are less reliable due to cardiovascular adaptations.

Question 3

Which exercise modification is most appropriate for an older adult (75 years) with osteoporosis and high fall risk?

Accepted Answer

Prioritize seated or supine exercises and balance training over impact activities

Answer

Seated/supine exercises reduce fall risk while balance training directly addresses fall prevention, making this the safest approach for high fall-risk older adults with osteoporosis.

Question 4

A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) reports dyspnea during exercise. Which initial intensity guideline should guide their aerobic program?

Accepted Answer

Use a dyspnea rating of 3–4 on the modified Borg Dyspnea Scale as the intensity target

Answer

A modified Borg Dyspnea Scale rating of 3–4 (moderate) is the recommended intensity target for COPD patients, balancing training stimulus with respiratory tolerance.

Question 5

Which resistance training recommendation is most appropriate for a client who is 8 weeks postpartum and has been cleared by her physician?

Accepted Answer

Start with low loads, high repetitions, and focus on core and pelvic floor rehabilitation

Answer

Postpartum exercise should begin with low loads, higher reps, and emphasis on core and pelvic floor to address the musculoskeletal changes of pregnancy and delivery.

ACSM Practice Test

ACSM Practice Test

ACSM Special Populations 2